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CMPD steps up presence as fans flock to uptown for CIAA Tournament

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Fans flocked into uptown Charlotte Thursday night for the CIAA Tournament, as action continued inside the Spectrum Center for the men’s quarterfinal round.

Officials expect up to 150,000 people will take part in tournament weekend, which could yield millions of dollars in revenue for the city.

To prepare for the expected crowds, CMPD pulled officers from across the city to assist with security and crowd control in and around the Spectrum Center.

Thursday, officers were visible at nearly every corner, with many stationed outside the arena, and along surrounding crosswalks to assist pedestrians.

Fan attending the tournament noticed the difference.

“Last couple years we came the bus area didn't look too friendly,” said one fan who  traveled from Maryland to attend the tournament. “Now it looks a lot better all around.”

Uptown restaurants have also been prepped for the massive crowds.

A manager with Red Eye Diner located in the Epicenter said they purchased additional inventory ahead of tournament weekend.

The diner also increased staffing  and hired private security.

“We don't really know what to expect.,” restaurant manager Krystal Cook said. “We're new in the Epicenter, so we really aren't quite sure what's going to happen.”

In 2016, the tournament pumped more than $57 million into the city's economy.

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